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Becoming a Virtual Assistant

So, you’ve taken the bit in your teeth; and you’ve decided to take the leap and start your own virtual assistant business. Have you really thought this through? Do you have the equipment you need for your office? Have you decided on what services you will provide to your clients in your specialized niche? While I have seen it written in reports that most small businesses won’t even begin to turn a profit and start to become successful for two years, don’t let that dissuade you.

Well, I made it past the two-years and am well on my way to being a professional virtual and…writer!  Below are the benefits I enjoyed when I first started out as a VA (and still do enjoy).

New and Exciting Scenery

There are many reasons to start a new virtual assistance business, even in this down-turned economy. Well, as I sit here and think about it, here are a few of my personal favorites. Number one benefit is that you get to see new and sometimes exciting scenery. As I sit here reflecting on the benefits of working out of your home, I gaze out the window and see the birds twittering and singing in the trees. Look! There is a grackle at the birdbath dipping his food in the water to soften it, even in the softly falling rain that is falling on this wonderful Thanksgiving Day. Usually, it’s a piece of dog food that he has stolen from some unsuspecting dog that’s catching forty winks. It’s such a hard job, you know, being a watchdog.

My faithful cat, Yoda, sleeps next to me keeping me company. She’s not too interested in the birds now; she appointed herself as guardian of the birds and has been watching them all morning. She’s tired now. Sshhh, don’t disturb her; it’s time for her catnap.

Climate Control

The second benefit is that you have climate control. Brrr, it’s cold in the house. Hey, Sis. Would you mind turning the air conditioner down? Can you beat that? You can adjust your own thermostat to the temperature YOU like. You don’t have to wait for maintenance where you’re working to say – Well, everyone else is just fine. You’ll just have to put a sweater on or quit your gosh-darned complaining. Put some clothes on!

Chose Your Own Hours

Now I know you will all like this benefit. You get to take your break when you want to. You can decide what hours you want to work. Got to take your child to the doctor? No problem. It’s up to you what you want to work, as long as you get out what you commit to your client. Speaking of my sis, she’s sitting next to me playing solitaire. She says “This is my breakfast break.” Shame on her — she should be working! She says “My job is done! You’re the cog in the wheel now.”

Lessen the Need for a Babysitter or Pet Sitter

Oh, I forgot to tell you. When you work virtual, your faithful canine companion gets to lay by your side helping you work. The benefit? Your dog or cat does not have to be alone all day. If you have children, you are home when your children need you.

Stress Relief

Oh, did I mention that the stress level is nearly, totally gone? You don’t have someone breathing down your neck. You don’t have scheduled annual or semi-annual reviews. Your supervisor doesn’t constantly harp that you must be a team member, you must do this job this way, etc. You can even have the radio on or the TV on low.

Working virtual is rewarding. I warn you, however, when you start your business, you will undoubtedly work more hours than if you were working full-time at a company. You know what though? You will enjoy it much more because you will be doing it for yourself. Many of you know my best friend, Dolly, that went to be with the Lord. We would work such long hours that we would fall asleep in our chairs at our desks.

Added Benefits

Your expenses will be lowered. Now, wait until you hear this. You won’t have to buy gas, commute, travel long distances, or get stuck in traffic. Doesn’t that sound wonderful?

What about the clothes you wear for work? You won’t have to buy an expensive wardrobe. You can work in your pajamas if you want or dress as casually as you want when you work at home. Don’t feel like putting on makeup or slaving over your hair, Ladies? You got it. You can work from your home (as long as you don’t have clients coming to your home) being just the way you want to be. Shed those jackets and ties, Men. Relax and wear your grungiest t-shirt if you want.

Here is the main benefit – it is just wonderful and self-satisfying.

So if you are considering delving into the world of creating your own virtual assistance business, let me reassure you that you can do it. With perseverance and drive, you can do anything you set out to do.  Why not take the leap and do it now?
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***Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make purchases using them. Please see our affiliate disclosure.***

Pam Lokker is a master writer and a virtual assistant professional. While we are not currently taking on new clients, Borlok Virtual Assistants has been the place to get global expert VA services with quality and on-time delivery for many years.

If you are brand new and would like some training, why not look into the Virtual Assistant Career on VAnetworking.com. (Affiliate link)

Updated 10/14/2022